Biotechnology Forum for the CFA

Focus

Exploring the role of biotechnology in answering the question: How can we enhance the economic vitality and the sustainability of Kentucky farms while also recognizing the diversity of operations and interests among Kentucky farmers?

Moderator Lori Garkovich

Structure

15 minute comments by presenters

Questions from the audience -- we will use a note card system with the moderator grouping questions that cluster around similar issues/themes to facilitate covering a diversity of question topics presented and addressed

Topical Outline

I. The Diverse Applications of Biotechnology (Glenn Collins)

Brief overview on what is biotechnology

The diverse applications of biotechnology

Crop protection & general agronomic traits

“Pharming”

Crop diversification - niche markets

New industrial uses

II. Biotechnology and Risk Analysis (Valerie Askren)

Risks in the food system occur at:

Production level in the field

Transportation

Food processing

Consumer use

Ways in which biotechnology can be used to reduce risks in the food system

III. The role of Universities (Scott Smith)

The difference between basic and applied research and science and technological applications

Trends in the sponsorship of research and biotechnology research at Land Grant Universities

The diverse ways in which Land Grant University research addresses biotechnology - molecular biology, applied research, technological applications, socioeconomic impacts, ethical issues